When Scouts want to meet young people from another country they usually think of attending a World Jamboree or another International gathering. But few people realize that each year about half-a-million Scouts and Guides “get together” over the Airwaves for the annual Jamboree-on-the-Air (JOTA). JOTA is a real Jamboree during which Scouting experiences are exchanged and ideas are shared.
This year’s Greenock & District Scouts JOTA event takes place at Scout HQ 159a Finnart Street, Greenock, PA16 8HZ on Saturday 17th Oct and Sunday 18th Oct. One Hour ‘Drop-In’ sessions will be available from 10am-4pm on Saturday and 10am-2pm on Sunday with a maximum of 16. Under 18’s must be accompanied by a leader.
JOTA is an ideal opportunity for young people and their leaders from the District & Region to see what happens during the annual JOTA event and also to have a chat with some of the District’s radio operators about Amateur Radio. Any adult Volunteers within groups are very welcome to drop in any time over the weekend to try out our activities, but note if bringing young people then it is advisable to book a 1 hour slot.
There will be a variety of fun activities that will suit all age groups which will include morse code activities, passing a greetings message to other scouts and other fun radio & communication related games designed by club members (outside and inside).
Did you know? Amongst the ranks of Radio Amateurs have been the Prime Minister of India Rajiv Gandhi, the Kings of Spain, Jordan and Thailand, the Prime minister of Japan, President of Argentina, the broadcaster Walter Cronkite, the actor Marlin Brando, the CEOs of Sony and of Apple Computers, and 112 Astronauts/Cosmonauts including the first man in space Yuri Gargarin.
Should groups wish to take part and visit Greenock District Scouts JOTA Station then please contact the radio club on mm0tsg@gmail.com to book your place. Spaces are limited so it is essential that you advise club members when you intend to bring some young people.
